4 Jul – Following the success of "Sonic the Hedgehog" TV and movie adaptations, it was revealed that SEGA is looking to expand its live-action projects further with its subsidiary company, Atlus. Speaking about the plan, SEGA's lead producer Toru Nakahara stated, "Atlus' worlds are filled with high drama, cutting-edge style and compelling characters. Stories like those from the Persona franchise really resonate with our fans and we see an opportunity to expand the lore like no one has seen - or played - before." "Together, Sega and Atlus, are working to bring these stories and worlds to life through new mediums and for new audiences," he added.
However, the company made no mention as to which studios have expressed interest in working with them for their upcoming projects. Founded in Tokyo, Japan in 1986, Atlus is known for its many popular franchises including "Persona", "Megami Tensei" and "Etrian Odyssey". The first Sonic movie, directed by Jeff Fowler, made USD 306.8 million at the box office, before it's second film, "Sonic the Hedgehog 2", which was released in April this year, made USD 401 million at the box office.